Laker Nation News

The Community Colleges of Illinois are the largest source of workforce development or trades training in the state, preparing students with the short-term training they need to excel in high-demand career fields. By creating pathways to affordable, accessible credentials, these programs present unique opportunities for career development and economic mobility for the most underserved communities, such as low-income students.

Lake Land College is proud to share this commitment to strengthen local regions and offer pathways to success for all students. Earlier this year, the College received a grant from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to provide free CDL training for U.S. veterans and active service members, as well as their spouses and dependent children.

With the support of this grant, up to 30 veterans and their family members can earn a CDL license or licensure upgrade with all tuition, course and testing fees covered. As the only college in Illinois to receive this grant funding, Lake Land is proud to provide underrepresented veteran populations with rapid access to rewarding, in-demand careers to help them support their families as they return from service.

Lake Land College also provides innovative apprenticeship programs that strengthen both individuals and communities. Under the apprenticeship model, students develop crucial career skills with hands-on learning on Lake Land’s campus and apply those skills in real workplaces. The format provides students with a practical education, mentorship opportunities and the ability to earn a salary while their tuition is covered by a sponsoring business. While often associated with construction, manufacturing and other trade careers, apprenticeships have evolved to include sectors such as commercial driving, early childhood education, nursing and IT.

Sponsoring businesses also benefit from the apprenticeship structure, which expands the pool of qualified candidates for high-demand positions. The businesses also play a critical role in developing all apprenticeship curriculum, ensuring their future employees receive the precise training they need to succeed. As a result, businesses who participate in apprenticeship programs enjoy an impressive return on investment of $1.49 for every dollar spent, according to the Department of Labor.

Lake Land College also provides a wide range of workforce development solutions through its Adult Education programs. At Lake Land College, students can enroll in free High School Equivalency (HSE) courses to complete a GED, receive an in-depth introduction to the English language with English Language Acquisition (ELA) courses and upgrade their career skills through the Center for Business and Industry. These programs all help students develop crucial skills and maximize their career potential.

Lake Land College is proud to be among the Community Colleges of Illinois to serve the most underrepresented student populations and offer life-changing career pathways for all. When education and industry collaborate to develop accessible, affordable and relevant training opportunities, the result is a powerful workforce equipped for immediate and ongoing success.

To learn more about workforce development or trades training programs available at Lake Land College, contact Director of the Center for Business & Industry Bonnie Moore at 217-238-8260 or bmoore71258@lakelandcollege.edu.

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In a new partnership, Lake Land College graduates will be automatically accepted to Millikin University and be able to complete their Millikin bachelor’s degree in two years with full-time enrollment, strengthening the transfer process and providing a seamless transfer experience for students.

Lake Land students who wish to transfer to Millikin will be provided with a plan of study, as well as automatic acceptance into a Millikin baccalaureate degree program upon successful completion of an Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Science (AS), Associate in Engineering Science (AES) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) with a 2.0 cumulative GPA.

“For some students, the transfer process from community college to a four-year institution can be a complex and nuanced process,” Millikin President Dr. Jim Reynolds said. “This transfer agreement with Lake Land College provides a clear and attainable path to pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Millikin University, with the benefits of our unique opportunities, including Performance Learning and access to our outstanding graduate programs.”

Upon successful completion of an AA and AS with a 2.0 cumulative GPA, transfer students can successfully complete the following programs in two years (four semesters):

Art, Art Therapy, Arts Administration, Business Communication, Communication, Criminal Justice, Elementary Education, English Studies, English Writing, Environmental Studies, History, Multimedia Communication, Music (requires audition), Organizational Leadership, Political Science, Sociology, Sport & Recreation Management, and Theatre.

“When neighboring higher education institutions work together to provide affordable, accessible pathways to bachelor degree completion, we are benefitting students and supporting the economic growth of East Central Illinois,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “This transfer agreement with Millikin University aligns perfectly with our strategic planning goal to strengthen and expand transfer pathways for students and provides an outstanding opportunity for students to earn a life-changing education close to home.”

Lake Land College students transferring to Millikin with a completed AA and AS will have completed 100% of Millikin’s University Studies requirements and can complete their Millikin bachelor’s degree in two years, provided they are enrolled full-time (12-18 credits per semester).

This agreement also provides paths to bachelor’s degrees for students in several Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs, including Accounting, Management, Marketing, Information Technology, and Law Enforcement.

“This collaboration with Lake Land College creates unique and seamless pathways for their graduates to continue their studies in Central Illinois at Millikin,” said Millikin Provost Mary Black. “It is a testament to our longstanding relationship with Lake Land and underscores our overarching goal to developing strong community partnerships.”

Students who have successfully met the requirements of the Lake Land Honors Program are guaranteed automatic acceptance into the James Millikin Honors Scholars Program upon application. This agreement is effective beginning the 2024-25 academic year.

“We appreciate Millikin University’s commitment to creating new opportunities for community college students,” Lake Land College Vice President for Academic Services Ikemefuna Nwosu said. “With this partnership, Lake Land College students know they can seamlessly transfer to Millikin and continue to enjoy the highest standards of academic excellence.”

Lake Land College students can also take advantage of the Millikin Tuition Promise and Big Blue Pledge: Illinois Free Tuition Program, which began in the fall of 2024. The Millikin Tuition Promise provides a reduced tuition rate of $26,000 for all full-time traditional undergraduate students. Students can then anticipate an annual inflationary tuition rate increase of less than 4% (at $1,000) each year in the future.

The Big Blue Pledge: Illinois Free Tuition Program represents an investment in Illinois students who may lack the financial options necessary to pursue a private college education and will cover 100% of their undergraduate tuition with Millikin grants and scholarships, filling the gap after available state and federal grants.

To qualify for the Big Blue Pledge, students must:

– submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

– be an Illinois resident (as determined by the FAFSA);

– be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant; and

– be enrolled full-time (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester) as a traditional undergraduate student at Millikin.

For more information on the Millikin programs available to Lake Land transfer students and a complete list of the specific program and course articulation details, visit millikin.edu/LakeLand.

Lake Land College presented the Non-traditional Student of the Year Award to Gertie Schrock, Tuscola, during a ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 7. Schrock was among 11 students who were recognized for their perseverance and outstanding determination in pursuing their academic goals.

The nominees were: Jessica Jones, Tuscola; Jean Michael Rincon Rojas, Columbia; Kelly Richardson, Charleston; Eric Stanley, Charleston; Corinne Coad, Toledo; Lacey Crawley, Mattoon; Darin Miller, Shelbyville; Tamara Beck, Stewardson; Glen Sharpmack, East Alton; and Robert Shoraga, Mattoon.

“The individuals we honor this evening are a special group of students. We know their journeys have been full of obstacles, and yet, as they come to class every day ready to learn with smiles on their faces, you would never guess the hardships they’ve overcome to be here today,” said Kelly Allee, Director of Marketing and Public Relations. “With resilience and determination, they inspire their peers and instructors. They all are shining examples of what it means to be Lakers.”

Gertie Schrock is a non-traditional student from Tuscola. Growing up in the Amish community, she was taught German as her first language and was not afforded the opportunity to earn a high school diploma. As an adult, she enrolled in Lake Land’s Adult Education program to earn her GED along with her daughter. She completed her GED and currently studies in Lake Land’s BNA program to fulfill her dream of becoming a CNA.

Schrock was nominated by Adult Education Transition Coordinator Mariah White-Landrus. In the nomination form, White-Landrus said, “You could not ask to have a better student than Gertie. She stands as a beacon of strength to those who are lucky enough to know her.”

Jessica Jones is a non-traditional student from Tuscola and attends Lake Land to pursue her dream of working in archeology. She balances her college studies with two jobs, demonstrating great determination to complete her degree. After graduating from Lake Land, she plans to transfer to a university to continue pursuing her archeological studies.

Jones was nominated by Director of TRIO Programs Lori Ohnesorge. In the nomination form, Ohnesorge said, “Jessica is a very humble person with grounded values. She is thankful for all the opportunities that Lake Land College has provided to her.”

Jean Michael Rincon Rojas is a non-traditional, international student from Columbia. He came to Lake Land College to improve his English skills and prepare for his ultimate goal of earning a master’s degree in agriculture. He is always upbeat and positive as he navigates a foreign culture and is driven to succeed in his classes. Recently, he excelled as a research intern in plant breeding for Ag Alumni Seed Improvement in Lafayette, Indiana.

Allee nominated Rojas for the honor. In the nomination form, she said, “Jean is a very caring person with a lot of ambition and goals. He absorbs information from all his experiences, and I am confident he will be an excellent leader when provided with the opportunity.”

Kelly Richardson is a non-traditional student from Charleston who is studying in Lake Land’s nursing program. She is dedicated to her studies and balances her time between work, school and raising a family. She is driven to excel and shows incredible integrity and compassion for others in all that she does.

Richardson was nominated by Library Cataloging/Acquisitions Assistant Kathryn Helmink. In the nomination form, Helmink said, “It is admirable to see Kelly finding her way and becoming successful as a non-traditional student through the different challenges and barriers.”

Eric Stanley is a non-traditional student from Charleston who is studying biology. He initially faced uncertainty about how to fit in as a non-traditional college student, but he was quickly grown to excel at Lake Land and stands out as a leader among his peers. He serves as a TRIO ambassador, is active in the Alternative Education Club and has maintained a strong GPA.

Stanley was nominated by Director of Student Success Services Kim Hunter. In the nomination form, Hunter said, “Eric is kind, helpful and ready to help folks out. He is everything we want a standout of the Laker community to be.”

Corinne Coad is a non-traditional student from Toledo who balances her studies with her responsibilities as a single mother. She is a first-generation college student and has worked diligently, maintaining strong grades throughout her time in both the practical nurse and registered nurse programs. She leads other students in classroom exercises and group work, always willing to assist other students in the class.

Coad was nominated by Nursing Instructors Nichole Jones and Karla Hardiek. In the nomination form, they said, “Corinne is a model student. She works hard and uses her resources well, and it shows in her grades. She is humble, kind and focused. She empathizes with her fellow classmates and patients.”

Lacey Crawley is a non-traditional student from Mattoon who balances her studies with her employment at both LIFT and The Learning Zone. She is also a dedicated mother, and has shown great resilience in balancing all of life’s responsibilities. She is a leader among her peers and a willing volunteer in the campus community, consistently lending a hand to others and always ready to offer help when needed.

Crawley was nominated by Director of Student Life Lisa Shumard-Shelton and Early Childhood Education Instructor Tanille Ulm. In the nomination form, Shumard-Shelton said, “With a willingness to face new challenges, Lacey inspires those around her to do the same. Her unique insights, shaped by her personal and professional experiences, contribute to enriching class discussions and group dynamics, further highlighting her leadership potential.”

Darin Miller is a non-traditional student from who comes to Lake Land after working for more than two decades at Graphic Packaging in Shelbyville. He manages his studies along with his role as a father, as he and his wife have adopted multiple children. He brings a fresh perspective to the classroom with his years of workforce experience and often steps up to lead group projects. At Lake Land, he studies Agriculture Business and Supply and serves as a motivating example to the younger students around him.

Miller was nominated by Shumard-Shelton and Agronomy Instructor Christian Kessler. In the nomination form, Kessler said, “Darin is an exemplary student that anyone on campus can look up to and utilize as a role model. He truly embodies all traits that make leaders effective and fair. He always has a smile on his face and is determined to succeed to matter what life throws at him.”

Tamara Beck is a non-traditional student from Stewardson. A single mom of four, she earned her GED in 2023 and is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Tamara always gives back to others, volunteering to support her daughter’s softball team and providing care to others by working in a nursing home. She gives full effort in everything she does and always maintains a positive attitude.

Beck was nominated by Perkins Specialist Joy Kaurin. In the nomination form, Kaurin said, “In continuing to pursue her education, Tamara is showing her children that anything is possible. Truly, her potential is limitless because of her determination to continue to pursue her education, even when it’s difficult.”

Glen Sharpmack is a non-traditional student from East Alton. He is pursuing a degree in business while also maintaining a full-time job and serving as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He entered the workforce at just 18 years old back in 1985 and always prioritized his children’s needs over his own interests. By attending Lake Land now at 56 years old, he is pursuing a lifelong dream of earning a degree. Sharpmack is an inspiration to others through his hard work and commitment to personal growth.

Sharpmack was nominated by his daughter, Bailey Cole, Foundation Awards & Corporate Relations Coordinator, and his son-in-law, Dylan Cole, Assistant Comptroller & Purchasing Coordinator. In the nomination form, Bailey said, “Glen sets a strong example of what a non-traditional student can achieve if they put their mind to it. I am so proud of him and the role model he has been, teaching us to work hard, to be grateful and prioritize family.”

Robert Shoraga is a non-traditional student from Mattoon and is pursuing a degree in broadcast communication. With his age and background in the U.S. Navy, he brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his studies. He helps his peers through his leadership, character and ability to connect with his others. He also sets an example to future generations with his determination and passion for learning.

Shoraga was nominated by his daughter, Constance Rickey, Nursing Instructor. In the nomination form, Rickey said, “Not only is Robert an inspiration, he is the best dad and grandpa anyone could ask for. He embodies the spirit of perseverance and lifelong learning, proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s dream.”

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The Lake Land College Clay Target Shooting team was named the National Trap Shooting Champion Runner-Up Team at the USA College Clay Target Nationals.

Multiple Lakers also received individual honors during the event. Jaxson Wilson, Newton, was named National Individual Champion with a score of 197/200. Wilson also placed first in the High Silver Male Category. Brandon Himes, Toledo, placed second in the High Gold Male Category with a score of 194/200.

The Lake Land Clay Target Shooting team was added to the College’s athletic lineup in Fall 2023. In just its second year of competition, the team impressed against the 18 colleges and universities across the nation that participated in nationals tournament.

“I am very proud of our team’s accomplishment. Being just our second year as an athletic program on campus, this achievement definitely sets the bar high for future years,” Clay Target Shooting Head Coach Josh Fulk said. “Coming in second at Nationals to a program that is well known in the trapshooting community with years of history is definitely a huge accomplishment. I look forward to the future and what we will accomplish.”

The 2024-2025 Lake Land College Clay Target Shooting team consists of the following students:

To learn more about the Lake Land College Clay and Trap Shooting team, contact Fulk at 217-234-5073 or jfulk@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College received a grant of $130,000 to provide free Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training and testing for up to 30 U.S. military Veterans and active service members, as well as their spouses and dependent children.

The funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through a Commercial Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant (CVMOST). Lake Land College is the only community college in the state of Illinois to receive the grant.

“At FMCSA, our job is all about safety. That includes safety of the roadways and safety of our nation’s commercial motor vehicle drivers,” said FMCSA Deputy Administrator Vinn White. “So we are proud to make this funding available, and we’re committed to working with the awardees to put it to good use, making it easier for drivers to enter into and stay in the CMV industry.”

The grant will cover the costs of CDL completion or license upgrade for up to 30 students, including course tuition and all fees for permits, background checks and hazmat checks. Classes for the CDL program at Lake Land College start every two weeks and take just six weeks to complete, providing students with a rapid pathway to a high-demand career in transportation.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to our local Veterans and active service members,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “We’re very thankful for their service to our country, and we hope to see many capitalize on this unique opportunity to jumpstart a rewarding career for minimal cost.”

To learn more about the Lake Land College CDL program, contact Transportation Training Coordinator Justin Onigkeit at 217-238-8239 or jonigkeit@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College hosted a Día de los Muertos celebration on Friday, November 1 in the Luther Student Center. During the event, students, staff and local community members enjoyed traditional food, activities, an ofrenda and a showing of the movie “Coco.”

Día de los Muertos, commonly known as “Day of the Dead,” is widely observed in Mexico from Nov. 1-2. The holiday includes the creation of ofrendas, which families use to honor deceased loved ones with photos, flowers and the favorite food and drinks of the departed.

“We hosted a similar event last year and had great success, so we were thrilled to celebrate Día de los Muertos on campus again this year,” said Mercury Bowen, Coordinator of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. “It’s an incredible way to help some of our international students feel welcomed and included, while allowing other students to experience a new culture maybe for the first time.”

The Día de los Muertos celebration is just one of many initiatives Lake Land College has taken to uphold an inclusive campus culture. More information about these ongoing events is available on the Lake Land College website at LakeLandCollege.edu/celebrations/.

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The Lake Land College mascot Laker Louie is featured in a brand-new children’s book, “Cheers for Laker Louie.”

Written by Director of Student Life Lisa Shumard-Shelton and illustrated by Business Adjunct Brett Sawyer, the book follows Laker Louie as he tries out for various Lake Land College athletic teams.

“Cheers for Laker Louie” is a follow-up to last year’s “High Fives for Laker Louie,” which was also written and illustrated by Shumard-Shelton and Sawyer respectively. Both books are available to purchase online or in-person at the Laker Nest Bookstore, and all profits are donated to the Lake Land College Foundation student scholarship fund.

“It was so much fun making the first book and seeing all the positive responses to it, so I knew I definitely wanted to continue Laker Louie’s story,” Shumard-Shelton said. “The books are a great way to help young children see the benefits of college, and I’m thrilled that all sales of this new book are again supporting our students through scholarships.”

To purchase a copy of “Cheers for Laker Louie,” visit the Lake Land College Laker Next Bookstore website at https://bookstore.lakelandcollege.edu/default.asp.

Schools, libraries and other’s children’s groups can also request a reading of “High Fives for Laker Louie” or the newly-released “Cheers for Laker Louie” by contacting Lake Land College Student Life at studentlife@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Every year, Lake Land College students enroll in healthcare programs and complete high-demand credentials with the support of a statewide grant known as the Pipeline for Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH).

The PATH grant was created to address shortages in the healthcare workforce by creating, supporting and expanding opportunities for students in nursing and select healthcare pathways in Illinois. Support opportunities include tuition reimbursement, tutoring services and cost assistance for lab equipment and licensure fees. PATH support is available to Lake Land College students entering or advancing their healthcare careers through the following programs: Associate Degree Nurse, Practical Nursing, Registered Nurse, LPN-ADN Bridge, Basic Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedical Services.

Since its creation, the PATH program has successfully expanded healthcare training opportunities and the overall healthcare workforce in Illinois. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 more than 27,600 students enrolled in Illinois community colleges under the PATH grant, 45% of which were first-generation college students, and more than 15,500 completed their programs. In this same timeframe, Lake Land College enrolled 643 students under the grant and saw 437 PATH students obtain their licenses and secure healthcare employment.

Magon Germscheid, one of the many Lake Land students currently receiving PATH support, came to the College to pursue her dream of nursing and help her husband support their six children. She is currently enrolled in Lake Land’s Registered Nurse (RN) program and plans to continue her education to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. For Germscheid, The PATH grant has helped alleviate financial constraints by covering costs of tuition, books and lab equipment.

“I am grateful for the PATH team and their assistance,” Germscheid said. “When I started back to school, my top prayer was that it would not be a financial burden on our family. The PATH grant and tuition reimbursement has helped make that a reality.”

Germscheid is completing her clinical training in the nursing program at HSHS St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham.

HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital shares Lake Land College’s commitment to develop a highly skilled healthcare workforce from within our communities. By strengthening the educational pathways to success through the PATH Grant, we are expanding opportunities for individuals to advance in their careers and provide valuable contributions to the mission of providing quality care to our patients, said Anthony Powers, Chief Administrative Officer of HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham and HSHS Good Shephard Hospital in Shelbyville.

With PATH support, Illinois community colleges have also expanded training and employment opportunities with partnerships throughout the state. Since the grant’s creation, Illinois community colleges have engaged with 1,032 healthcare employers, successfully developed 27 new healthcare education programs and expanded 74 others. During this time, Lake Land College has developed one new healthcare program, expanded two others and has partnered with 42 local employers to create opportunities for student clinicals.

“Sarah Bush Lincoln is proud to partner with Lake Land College to strengthen our communities by creating new educational and career opportunities from within. As an organization we have seen the positive impact the PATH grant has had in developing a highly skilled workforce in high demand healthcare fields,” Sarah Bush Lincoln President and CEO Kim Uphoff said.

For more information about the PATH grant at Lake Land College, contact PATH Grant Manager Amanda Dickens-Montgomery at 217-234-5202 or adickensmontgomery@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week on Tuesday, Nov. 19 with an event for apprentices, apprentice alumni and business partners. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Foundation and Alumni Center on the Lake Land College campus, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon.

The celebration is a luncheon event that includes a declaration of National Apprenticeship Week, a keynote address and celebratory signings for all new apprentices. Courtney Yockey, President and CEO of the Effingham Regional Growth Alliance, will provide the keynote address. All apprentices who have enrolled at Lake Land College since November of 2023 will be honored with celebratory signings during the event.

“Apprenticeships play such a crucial role in our communities, strengthening employers and employees throughout our economic region,” said Bonnie Moore, Director to the Center for Business and Industry. “We’re thrilled to be able to celebrate apprenticeship as a whole and recognize so many incredible individuals who are excelling in these programs.”

Catered lunch will be provided at the event for all in attendance. Those interested in attending should RSVP by contacting Moore at 217-238-8260 or bmoore71258@lakelandcollege.edu. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Lake Land College is celebrating Veterans Appreciation Month by recognizing and honoring local Veterans throughout the month of November.

During the week of Nov. 4-8, all Veterans throughout the Lake Land community are invited to add a photo from their time of service to a display in the Luther Student Center. Family members and friends are also invited to display a photo of a loved one who served. Picture frames and information cards will be provided. All photos can be picked up at the end of the week.

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, Lake Land will hold a Veterans Ceremony for all staff and student Veterans from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will begin with a Laying of the Wreath Ceremony and short program at the Veterans Wall in Podesta Park on Lake Land’s campus. The event will then continue in the Luther Student Center, where the Student Activity Board will provide refreshments and activities for those in attendance.

Students in the Lake Land College Dental Hygiene program will offer free dental cleanings and x-rays to veterans through the entire month of November for Veterans Appreciation Month. Appointments are available on Monday and Tuesday at 12:30 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday at 12 p.m. Each appointment is 3.5 hours and will be held in the Dental Hygiene Clinic in room 116 of the Northwest Building on the Lake Land College campus, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon. To schedule an appointment, contact the clinic at 217-234-5249.

Students in Lake Land’s cosmetology program will also be offering free haircuts to all veterans and active-duty military personnel during the week of Nov. 11-15. Free haircuts are available by appointment on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments can be made by contacting the cosmetology department at 217-234-5300. The haircuts will take place in the Cosmetology Clinic in the West Building on the Lake Land College campus in Mattoon.

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